Launch of the European Cluster for Drone Innovation (ECDI) project

Empowering European SMEs to Reach New Heights in Drone Innovation

On October 9th, 2025, Aerospace Valley took part in the Euroclusters Kick-off Meeting in Brussels, marking the official start of the European Cluster for Drone Innovation (ECDI) project.
This new European initiative aims to accelerate drone innovation and empower SMEs across Europe.

Coordinated by Aerospace Valley and co-funded by the SMP-COSME-2024-CLUSTERS-01 programme, the project brings together four key partners:

Together, they aim to strengthen Europe’s competitiveness and autonomy in drone technologies.

 

A European effort to accelerate drone innovation

The ECDI project seeks to structure and reinforce the European drone innovation ecosystem by fostering collaboration, sharing expertise, and supporting innovation and technological development among SMEs.

To achieve this, the consortium focuses on four key action areas:

  • Innovation & Alliance – Build a European network and shared database through the Innovation Drone Alliance
  • SME Support – Provide training on emerging technologies such as AI, IoT, robotics, and cybersecurity
  • Market & Visibility – Facilitate events, trade fairs, and international networking opportunities
  • Dual-Use Development – Support SMEs in developing dual-use applications and advancing their green and digital transition

 

€1.99 million in funding opportunities for European SMEs

Through ECDI, European SMEs will gain access not only to funding, but also to expertise, international visibility, and a strong collaborative network.

 

Stay connected

Aerospace Valley and its partners will regularly share updates on funding opportunities, upcoming events, and training activities related to ECDI.
Stay tuned for more information on the launch of the first open calls for SMEs.

Contact: Laure Vidal – vidal@aerospace-valley.com

 

Photos by Joanna Wagner – Silesian Aviation Cluster

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